Disney Moves Forward with Moana 3 Ahead of Live-Action Remake

Disney is reportedly advancing with the development of Moana 3, according to industry insider Daniel Richtman. This news arrives as excitement grows around the franchise, particularly with a live-action remake of the original 2016 film scheduled for release on July 10, 2026. The live-action version will feature Dwayne Johnson reprising his role as Maui, alongside Catherine Laga‘aia as Moana.

The announcement of Moana 3 marks the first significant update since the release of Moana 2 in 2024. Initially developed as a Disney+ series, the sequel achieved remarkable success, grossing over $1 billion at the global box office. The original animated feature continues to hold the title of the most-watched film on Disney+.

Disney’s pace in producing Moana 3 has picked up compared to the previous sequel, which took eight years to arrive after the original. Director David Derrick Jr. has hinted at potential storylines for the third installment, emphasizing the “untapped potential” of Moana’s new demigod status. He also suggested that the plot may explore elements from the post-credits scene of Moana 2, which hinted at the return of antagonists Matangi and Nalo.

Historically, Walt Disney Animation Studios takes six years or more to develop sequels, typically prioritizing original stories. While Disney has initiated work on Moana 3, the release is not expected until 2029 or 2030. Although Auliʻi Cravalho is anticipated to return as the voice of Moana, the live-action adaptation has cast a younger actress in the role.

As of now, Disney has not confirmed any additional casting details or a specific production schedule for Moana 3. This new chapter in the Moana franchise reflects Disney’s ongoing commitment to expanding its animated properties while also transitioning beloved stories into live-action formats.